How Much Does a Custom Driveway Gate Cost? (2026 Price Guide)
At JDR Metal Art, we specialize exclusively in premium, heirloom-quality estate gates. Our custom commissioned projects typically start at $7,500 for steel entry gates, with the average client investment ranging between $10,000 and $15,000+ depending on the intricacy of the metal art, gate size, and the choice between steel or marine-grade aluminum.
Why Our Gates Cost More (The “Heirloom” Standard)
You can buy a cheap gate online for $3,000, but it will likely be made of thin-gauge tubing and painted with a finish that fails in two years. We do not compete on price; we compete on longevity and artistry.
- Heavy Gauge Materials: We use structural-grade steel and aluminum that is significantly thicker than industry standards.
- Two-Stage Powder Coat: Every gate undergoes our rigorous Powder Coating Process, including a zinc-rich primer (for steel) or double-polyester (for aluminum) to ensure a rust-free life.
- Custom Artistry: You are not buying a “product”; you are commissioning a piece of art. Our Plasma Cutting process involves hours of design work and machine time to create unique wildlife or tree themes that cannot be mass-produced.
Tier 1: The Starting Point ($7,500 – $10,000)
- What you get: A heavy-duty, custom-sized steel gate with a standard or semi-custom design.
- Ideal for: Homeowners who want a robust, secure entry that looks professional and functions perfectly, but may not need complex artistic scenes.
Tier 2: The “Signature” Series ($10,000 – $15,000)
- What you get: This is our most popular range. It typically includes dual-swing or sliding gates featuring our signature Wildlife & Tree Designs.
- Why it sits here: The cost covers the extensive CAD design time, laser/plasma cut time for intricate details (like oak leaves or deer antlers), and the multi-stage finishing process.
Tier 3: The “Elite” Class ($15,000+)
- What you get: Large-scale estate gates (16ft – 20ft+), often made from Marine-Grade Aluminum (which adds ~20% to material cost but guarantees zero rust forever).
- The Details: These gates often feature highly complex custom artwork, commercial-grade cantilever hardware for sliding gates, or unique architectural elements requested by the client.
Hidden Costs to Budget For
When planning your project, remember to budget for the complete system:
- Shipping: We crate and ship nationwide. (See our Shipping Guide).
- Automation: A professional Gate Opener Package (like LiftMaster) typically adds $2,000 – $3,000.
- Installation: High-quality installation (concrete, pillars, wiring) is an investment. Expect to pay a local contractor $1,500+ depending on site conditions.
